Virtual Image Mute for Video Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mute functions in video applications alert other participants that a user is not actively participating, as they cannot visually disguise their disengagement, unlike in audio calls, due to the inability to seamlessly replace live video with a virtual image.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that generates a virtual image to replace live video transmissions from a user who has invoked a mute function, using stored or computer-generated representations, allowing seamless integration with ongoing video calls without alerting other participants, utilizing an image processor and video muter components to create and transmit a virtual image that simulates the user's presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mute function is used in video applications, then user can block audio transmissions, but other participants can visually detect user disengagement through blank screen or absence from viewing area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by generating a virtual image that replicates the user's appearance and behavior patterns. This virtual image is transmitted to replace the live video feed when the user invokes the mute function, allowing other participants to perceive the user as still present and engaged, thus concealing the user's actual disengagement while maintaining the appearance of active participation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual image as an intermediary between the user's physical absence and the video feed displayed to other participants. This intermediary element masks the user's disengagement by presenting a simulated visual presence, thereby resolving the contradiction between enabling mute functionality and preventing detection of user absence.
2Ease of operation
If camera aperture is closed to mute video, then user blocks video transmissions, but other participants see blank screen indicating user inactivity
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of displaying a blank screen, the patent generates a virtual image that copies the user's visual appearance and behavioral characteristics. This virtual representation is transmitted to replace the live video feed, maintaining the illusion of user presence and preventing the loss of information about user engagement status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing and storing the user's appearance and behavior patterns before the mute function is invoked. These pre-captured data are then used to generate the virtual image, ensuring that the visual representation accurately reflects the user's presence even when physically absent.
3Adaptability or versatility
If user leaves viewing area or engages in other conversations during video call, then user can disengage from call, but other participants can visually determine user is not actively participating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a virtual image that replicates the user's visual presence and behavioral patterns. This virtual representation allows users to engage in other activities or leave the viewing area while maintaining the appearance of active participation, thus providing activity flexibility without exposing disengagement to other participants.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual image serves as an intermediary that mediates between the user's actual disengagement and the visual perception of other participants. This intermediary maintains the illusion of continuous engagement, allowing users to adapt their activities freely while preventing the visibility of their disengagement status.
Data Source
AI summary
A mute function is provided that allows a user to mute a video application without alerting other participants to the muting. A user participating in the video application selects the mute function, which causes the user's video device to present a virtual image of the user to the other participants of the video application. Therefore, the other participants to the video application may continue to believe that the user is actively participating in the video application when, in fact, the user has selected the mute function and may be engaging in other activities.